ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH62.41

H62.41

Billable

Otitis externa in other diseases classified elsewhere, right ear

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/12/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 H62.41 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of otitis externa in other diseases classified elsewhere, right ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Otitis externa, commonly referred to as swimmer's ear, is an inflammation of the external auditory canal. This condition can arise as a complication of other diseases, such as eczema, psoriasis, or allergic reactions, which may predispose the ear canal to infection. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as ear pain, itching, discharge, and sometimes hearing loss. The right ear designation is crucial for accurate coding and treatment. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough history and physical examination, often supplemented by otoscopic evaluation to visualize the ear canal and tympanic membrane. Management may include topical antibiotics, corticosteroids, and analgesics, depending on the severity and underlying cause. In cases where otitis externa is secondary to other diseases, it is essential to document the primary condition to ensure appropriate coding and treatment. Proper management and follow-up are vital to prevent complications such as chronic otitis externa or hearing impairment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of underlying conditions causing otitis externa.
  • Need for precise documentation of the right ear involvement.
  • Differentiation from other types of otitis externa.
  • Potential for co-morbidities that may complicate coding.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the primary disease.
  • Failure to specify the affected ear.
  • Misclassification of the type of otitis externa.
  • Lack of follow-up documentation.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of ear symptoms, examination findings, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with ear pain and discharge, particularly in the context of eczema or dermatitis.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the relationship between the primary condition and otitis externa.

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

History of skin conditions affecting the ear, treatment of dermatitis, and any associated otitis externa.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with skin disorders that may lead to secondary infections in the ear.

Billing Considerations

Document skin condition management and its impact on ear health.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H62.41 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, H62
  • 41 should be used when otitis externa is a complication of another disease
  • Coders must ensure that the primary disease is documented and that the right ear is specified

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H62.41 When
  • Exclusions include cases where otitis externa is not related to another disease

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69200CPT Code

Removal of impacted cerumen

Clinical Scenario

Often performed in conjunction with treatment for otitis externa.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for cerumen removal and any associated conditions.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists may frequently perform this procedure in patients with otitis externa.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like otitis externa, enabling better tracking of disease prevalence and treatment outcomes. H62.41 provides a clear link to underlying diseases, improving clinical management and billing accuracy.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like otitis externa, enabling better tracking of disease prevalence and treatment outcomes. H62.41 provides a clear link to underlying diseases, improving clinical management and billing accuracy.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

billing accuracy.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the importance of specifying the right ear in H62.41?

Specifying the right ear is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment, as it affects management decisions and coding accuracy.